Kilkenny support group to send aid to Kos refugees

A Kilkenny-based couple will travel to Kos next month and deliver aid and supplies to the thousands of migrants who are stranded on the Greek island.

A Kilkenny-based couple will travel to Kos next month and deliver aid and supplies to the thousands of migrants who are stranded on the Greek island.

Locally a group has formed and a number of fundraising events are planned over the coming weeks to help raise money for the thousands of displaced refugees. Elinor Mountain and her husband Gus had booked flights to the island earlier this year before the humanitarian crisis.

“I was shocked when I heard about the number of people who are there and are displaced and hungry. Their basic needs are not been made and people have no food or access to basic toiletries.

“We decided to change our plans and spend two days there where we can link in with a local aid project, the Kos Solidarity Project and bring over the money that is raised here in Kilkenny as well as some aid. We have decided to spend what money we raise out there on the necessary provisions so as to help support the local community,” she said.

The first planned event will take place in Bosco’s Cafe (above the Watergate) on August 29 at 5pm. The event will include acoustic music, nibbles and a draw with all monies raised going to help the refugees in Kos. There is a suggested €5 donation on the door.

“I want to thank everyone for their support. There are plans for another events including a table quiz next month. People have been fantastic to date,” she said. Around 7,000 migrants, mainly Syrians fleeing the civil war, reached Kos last month, twice as many as in June. For more information contact Elinor Mountain on (086) 8179459 or see Kos Refugee Fundraiser Event on Facebook.

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